Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), the Culture of Silence: Telemedicine as Panacea and Its Challenge in Nigeria

Abstract

In today's world, the unchecked devastation imposed by intimate partner violence (IPV) continues to be a serious concern. The destructive effects of IPV span across many societal strata - socioeconomic, cultural, and demographic. Physical, sexual, and psychological abuse all fall under the umbrella of IPV, the ramifications of which can severely affect the physical and mental well-being of survivors. Even as awareness grows and efforts to combat IPV increase, a disconcerting silence continues to surround this issue. This silence is a major stumbling block to effective intervention and further support for survivors. Recognizing the need to defuse such 'cultures of silence', a new helping hand has emerged - telemedicine, which provides healthcare services through electronic communication technologies. The paper found that there is no specific legal framework for telemedicine in Nigeria although there are relevant laws, regulations, and policies governing telemedicine. This paper will explore the role of professional entities, such as the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN). Scrutinizing their guidelines, ethical standards, and policies related to telemedicine. Within the scope of this paper, the focus will be on delving deep into this intertwining of IPV, the culture of silence, telemedicine and law. The aim is to better understand how law can aid telemedicine to provide solutions to the challenges that survivors confront while seeking help and aid.

Keywords: Intimate-Partner, Violence, Culture, Legal, Telemedicine, Nigeria